The European Union has reaffirmed that clarifying the fate of persons still missing from the Kosovo conflict remains a central element of the EU-facilitated dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia.
A European Commission spokesperson confirmed that on July 28, forensic experts from the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) assisted specialists from Kosovo’s Institute of Forensic Medicine in assessing a site in Zubin Potok suspected of containing an unmarked mass grave.
According to the spokesperson, EULEX’s role was limited to providing forensic expertise and technical assistance.
“EULEX is not conducting any criminal investigations, as these fall under the jurisdiction of the Kosovo authorities,” the European Commission spokesperson said.
The Commission also highlighted the role of the Joint Commission on Missing Persons, established under the 2023 Declaration on Missing Persons as part of the EU-facilitated dialogue. The body is tasked with overseeing implementation of the declaration, supporting efforts to determine the fate of those who remain missing, and helping provide answers to their families.
“Supporting efforts to clarify the fate of persons still missing from the conflict remains a very important element of the dialogue facilitated by the European Union,” the spokesperson said.
The European Union further confirmed that it has provided financial assistance to Kosovo’s Institute of Forensic Medicine to support investigations and efforts aimed at identifying missing persons and locating unmarked burial sites.
The statement comes as authorities continue forensic work at a site in Zubin Potok where investigators suspect the presence of a mass grave linked to victims of the 1998–1999 Kosovo war.
